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HbA1c
(a.k.a Glycated Haemolglobin)
minimum sample volume required ~ 1ml
Tube type: EDTA
Special instructions
Microvette collection tubes for paediatric samples are also acceptable.
Interfering substances - some haemoglobin variants.
Add on time limit = 3 days
For known diabetes monitoring: 60 days minimum re-test interval.
For diagnosis of asymptomatic diabetes: if HbA1c >47 mmol/mol, repeat within 2 weeks to confirm the diagnosis.
Reference range
See clinical application section below
Units
mmol/mol HbA0
Turnaround Time
2
days
Department: Haematology
Clinical Application
HbA1c may give false indication of glycaemia if rapidly changing or if abnormal red cell turnover e.g. anaemia, chronic liver disease, CKD 4 & 5, haemoglobinopathies .
For monitoring diabetes:
Treatment targets: 48 mmol/mol (53 mmol/mol in type 2
diabetes if on a drug associated with hypoglycaemia) but individualised
treatment advised (NICE NG15 and 28).
For diagnosis of diabetes:
HbA1c <42 mmol/mol: Not consistent with diabetes mellitus.
HbA1c 42-47 mmol/mol: High diabetes risk.
HbA1c >47 mmol/mol: Diagnostic of diabetes mellitus.
For further information, please refer to the guidelines linked below.
